Definition of Catheterization, venous

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Catheterization, venous: The insertion of a tiny tube (a catheter) into a peripheral or central vein to deliver fluids or medication. This is the most frequently used method for the administration of intravenous (IV) fluids and IV meds (medications).

The most common complications of venous catheterization are infiltration of fluid around the catheter, failure of the line to stay open, and infection somewhere along the length of the catheter (catheter sepsis).